Spain manager Luis de la Fuente has backed teenage talisman Lamine Yamal to illuminate the upcoming World Cup despite his recent fitness struggles. Speaking after unveiling his 26-man squad, the coach emphasised that the tournament represents a defining career milestone for the Barcelona forward, who is currently recovering from a hamstring injury.
Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente has hinted that Lamine Yamal could be utilised as a high-impact substitute during the 2026 World Cup. The Barcelona sensation is currently sidelined for the remainder of the domestic season with a hamstring injury, forcing the national team to reconsider his workload for this summer's tournament in North America.
Lamine Yamal continues to rewrite the record books for both club and country, but Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente believes the 18-year-old is only scratching the surface of his potential. Speaking ahead of the friendly against Egypt at the RCDE Stadium, the manager reflected on the incredible trajectory the winger has taken since his senior debut.
Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente has moved to quell concerns regarding the fractured relationship between Lamine Yamal and Dani Carvajal. The Barcelona wonderkid and Real Madrid captain were involved in a heated confrontation following October's feisty El Clasico at the Santiago Bernabeu. Despite the domestic animosity, the national team boss insists that international duty transcends club rivalries as La Roja prepare for upcoming fixtures.
Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente has hailed Lamine Yamal as a singular talent who has been "touched by magic", reinforcing the 18-year-old's status as the crown jewel of the national team. De la Fuente spoke glowingly of the Barcelona winger’s character and development, highlighting the RFEF's long-standing commitment to securing his international future.
Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente has laid down the gauntlet for Dani Carvajal after the Real Madrid captain was a surprise omission from the latest La Roja squad. The veteran defender faces a race against time to prove his fitness and form ahead of the 2026 World Cup, with Spain going into the tournament as European champions.
Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente has fiercely defended Barcelona sensation Lamine Yamal against heavy media scrutiny regarding his off-field life. The manager emphasised the teenager's exhausting daily routine and immense dedication behind the scenes. He firmly believes that after such rigorous hard work, the young star has every right to enjoy a party.
Spain manager Luis de la Fuente has told Lionel Messi he should “never retire” as the Argentina star continues to weigh up whether to compete at the 2026 World Cup. The Inter Miami forward remains undecided over whether he will turn up in North America next summer, but he has now been told he can be the difference maker for the defending champions.
Luis de la Fuente says he has a "clear conscience" on Lamine Yamal after a long-running club vs country row. The Spain boss has previously been at loggerheads with Barcelona over his use of the 18-year-old, who was diagnosed with pubalgia after the first international break of the season in September. The teenager was forced to miss a number of games due to the chronic injury and has only played for Spain twice since the summer.
Spain manager Luis de la Fuente has played down concerns about a potential rift between Lamine Yamal and Dani Carvajal after their heated exchange following El Clasico. The Roja boss insists there is “no strange behaviour” in the squad and confirmed he has spoken to the Barcelona and Real Madrid players, stressing unity ahead of Spain’s upcoming World Cup qualifiers.